Method of assembling a hearing aid
A hearing aid includes a shell ( 104 ) manufactured by a rapid prototyping process, so as to include a first part customized to adapt it to the shape of the ear canal of a user, and a second part that defines an aperture; an electronics module; and a plug ( 200 ) with means for retaining it in a fixed position in the shell. The shell has guideways ( 212 ) for guiding lateral portions of the plug to support the plug in the aperture. The shell is adapted to receive by the aperture the electronics module; and the electronics module is adapted to engage a lip ( 206 ) of the plug to secure it in the shell. The invention further provides a method of assembling a part of a hearing aid.
1. A method of assembling a part of a hearing aid, comprising:
manufacturing a shell by a rapid prototyping process, said shell having an aperture and a guide means;
providing a plug;
providing said plug with a resilient prong with a latch;
providing an electronics module;
inserting said plug into said aperture by sliding said plug along said guide means; and
mounting said electronics module into the shell after inserting said plug, said electronics module being adapted to secure said plug in a fixed position.
2. A method of assembling a part of a hearing aid, comprising:
manufacturing a shell by a rapid prototyping process, said shell having an aperture and a guide means;
providing a plug;
providing a lid, said lid having a projection;
providing said plug with a recess adapted to receive said projection;
providing an electronics module;
inserting said plug into said aperture by sliding said plug along said guide means; and
mounting said electronics module into the shell after inserting said plug, said electronics module being adapted to secure said plug in a fixed position.
3. A method of assembling a part of a hearing aid, comprising:
manufacturing a shell by a rapid prototyping process, said shell having an aperture and a guide means;
providing a plug;
providing said plug with a resilient prong with a forward nose;
providing an electronics module;
inserting said plug into said aperture by sliding said plug along said guide means; and
mounting said electronics module into the shell after inserting said plug, said electronics module being adapted to secure said plug in a fixed position.